IAM Midwest Territory staff gathered at the Local 701 Union and Training Facility in Aurora, Illinois for a conference aimed at preparing union representatives for changes in the labor landscape.
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, opened the event by emphasizing the importance of solidarity and leadership among union members. “As a union we stand for more than just the work we do,” said Cicinelli. “We stand for solidarity, mutual respect, and fairness for all our members. Each of you play a vital role in creating a culture of strength and support that echoes throughout the workplace. You are not just employees, you are leaders, advocates, and the driving force behind the progress we’ve made and the progress we will continue to make.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed attendees and reinforced the union’s mission. “I wish you the best this week; a lot of great items that are going to be covered in addition to other critical items,” said Bryant. “We talk a lot about organizing, and that’s important, but most important is the servicing of our members. We can never lose sight of that. Servicing is critical, and it’s on us from the Executive Council to make sure that we give you all the support, tools and knowledge to be able to be successful leaders out there. Because when everyone’s successful in this room, the whole union is successful.”
Bryant also discussed recent campaigns such as Tempus AI’s organizing efforts leading to their first contract win as well as ongoing actions like District 837’s strike at Boeing.
The conference included presentations from several IAM officials. Carla Siegel, IAM General Counsel, spoke about legal aspects of representation and strikes along with updates on how National Labor Relations Board decisions impact daily union work.
Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary, reviewed financial management responsibilities within locals and encouraged staff to help members pursue leadership roles such as Secretary-Treasurer.
Other sessions included training on SharePoint by William LePinske (IAM Midwest Territory Coordinator), guidance on virtual membership meetings by Tim Hight (IAM William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center Educational Representative), discussion on podcasts and political engagement by Kevin Murch (IAM International Representative), and an overview of negotiations and strike procedures by Jeff McLeod (IAM Special Assistant to the International President).
Members of the IAM Executive Council present at the event were Brian Bryant (International President), Jody Bennett (Resident General Vice President), Robert “Bobby” Martinez (Western Territory General Vice President), and Richie Johnsen (Air Transport Territory General Vice President).
